History and exam
Key diagnostic factors
common
cough with increasing sputum production
Usually present. Less common in older patients.
fever or chills
Usually present. Less common in older patients.
dyspnea
Usually present.
pleuritic pain
Associated with bacteremia in outpatients.
abnormal auscultatory findings
Asymmetric breath sounds, pleural rubs, egophony (increased resonance of voice sounds heard on auscultation), and increased fremitus may be heard.
Pleural rub
Auscultation sounds: Pleural rub
Other diagnostic factors
common
dullness to percussion
Suggests consolidations and/or pleural effusion.
myalgia
Nonspecific symptom that is often reported.
arthralgia
Nonspecific symptom that is often reported.
uncommon
confusion
Not generally common but often seen in older patients.
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